British Columbia, Canada has been home to many up-and-coming artists and Yukon Blonde is one of those bands on the rise. The feel-good rock group puts out entrancing and upbeat music that gets the audience moving. Yukon Blonde has a retro vibe to them that sounds a bit like older 80’s rock mixed in with more modern version of 60’s sound. The quartet brings in elements of guitar pedals, booming bass drums, and vocal harmonies that all combine rock, folk, and surf-pop into a delicately balanced niche. Yukon Blonde will be releasing their debut full-length album later this month, so make sure to catch them at the Sunset to enjoy some new tunes.

Also playing tonight are Jon Pontrello (The Moondoggies) and Mads Jacobsen.

“Shrieve’s ability to transfix the audience and sweep them into his world is truly second to none. Spellbinder play some of Michael’s older compositions, “Every Step of the Way” and “Jungle Strut,” from his days with Santana but these versions are new and unique to this project. While there is an overall jazzy feel to the music, you’ll also find plenty of rock, world, blues, and deep, ambient grooves.

Shrieve’s assembled cohorts are of the finest caliber and deserve just as much attention as the ringleader. Hammond B3 organ player, Joe Doria, at times plays with such intensity you are completely riveted watching and waiting for his organ to burst into flames. Doria reminds us that the organ isn’t just for church. Trumpet player, John Fricke, is one of the most humble dudes I’ve ever had the pleasure of conversing with. Fricke’s solos range from spaced-out excursions to hauntingly, eerie movements. Danny Godinez is quite simply a guitar virtuoso. It won’t take long to discover that Godinez possesses an intimacy so complete with his instrument that he bears a little of his soul every time he plays. Rounding out this superb group is bassist Farko Dosumov. Dosumov coaxes his bass to speak to the audience and commands attention each time he has his moment to shine. When not providing solos worthy of the great Jaco himself, Farko’s thumping bass lines add the essential groove to the mix. – Jodi Hollister”